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A 2D echocardiogram is a diagnostic test that provides excellent and clear images of the heart, the paracardiac structures and the vessels in the heart. It is a non-invasive technique that uses sonar waves in order to pass through the skin, reach the internal organs and form clear images.

Also known as the Doppler ultrasound of the heart, the 2D echo test can be used in conjunction with stress tests, in order to assess the proper functioning of the heart.

Benefits of a 2D echo test

• Helps identify blood clots in the heart
• Helps spot the presence of any fluid in the sac around the heart
• Helps determine the presence of an aneurysm, atherosclerosis or blockages in the artery owing to fat accumulation
• Very helpful in the identification of problems with the aorta, which is the main artery connected to the heart

What happens during a 2D echo test?

It is a quick and painless procedure and usually takes less than an hour to be completed.

Here's what happens during a 2D echo test:

• Once you lie down on the examination table after taking off all clothes from the waist up and putting on a hospital gown, the doctor injects a saline solution or a dye into one of your veins. This helps with the formation of clearer pictures of the heart on the screen
• Soft, sticky patches called electrodes are attached to various places on your chest in order to monitor the heart's electrical activity.
• Next, some gel is applied on your chest in order to conduct the 2D echo. This gel helps the sonar waves to reach your heart.
• A handheld device known as a transducer is then moved over the area on which the gel is applied, in order to get clear images of your heart on the screen.
• A computer helps convert the echoes from the transducer into pictures of your heart on the screen
• The gel is finally wiped off after the completion of the test, and then you are free to go.

A doctor or cardiologist will then examine these reports in order to detect any abnormalities in the functioning of your heart.

Preparations for a 2D echo

Your doctor will ask you to refrain from eating for a few hours before a 2D echo.

Ask your doctor beforehand if the 2D echo is to be conducted in conjunction with a TMT (Treadmill Test). If so, make sure you carry a pair of comfortable running shoes with you.

Apollo Support

At Apollo Clinic, we realise the importance of diagnostic and monitoring tests, along with the mental stress that the patient goes through before and during such tests.

Keeping this in mind, we have designed the most comfortable, advanced, best-in-class infrastructure and machinery, along with the most experienced, warm and trained professionals in order to make the process easier, quick and more result-oriented for all our patients.